Which of the following is a common cause for esophageal varices?

• A. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• B. Alcohol-induced liver disease
• C. High blood pressure
• D. Asthma

Answer: (B)

Esophageal varices are dilated veins in the esophagus that result from increased pressure in the portal venous system, a condition known as portal hypertension. One of the most common causes of portal hypertension is liver disease, particularly alcohol-induced liver disease. Chronic alcohol consumption can lead to liver cirrhosis, which significantly alters blood flow through the liver and raises portal venous pressure, ultimately resulting in the development of esophageal varices.

The connection between liver disease and the formation of esophageal varices is primarily due to the liver’s role in filtering blood. When the liver is damaged, as seen in alcohol-induced conditions, it cannot adequately manage blood flow, causing the veins in the esophagus to become engorged and prone to rupture.

The other options do not directly contribute to the formation of esophageal varices. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma are respiratory illnesses that do not affect the portal venous system. High blood pressure can lead to various cardiovascular conditions but is not a direct cause of portal hypertension or esophageal varices, as it typically relates to systemic circulation rather than the portal circulation specifically.